Which of the following groups is definitely monophyletic?
a. nonvascular plants
b. green algae
c. green plants
d. seedless vascular plants
Introduction:
Cladistics refers to the approach to the biological classification wherein the organisms are arranged in the groups on the basis of the most recent common ancestor. The hypothesized relationships are usually based on the common derived traits which can be traced to the most recent common ancestor.
Answer to Problem 1TYK
Correct answer:
Green plants show monophyly.
Explanation of Solution
Explanation for the correct answer:
Option (c) is given as green plants. A monophyletic group or the clade refers to the club of organisms which comprises of all the descendants of the common ancestor. These groups are generally clubbed by the common derived traits which differentiate the organisms in the clade from other organisms. Green plants, red algae, and glaucophytes are considered to be the primary photosynthetic eukaryotes. Therefore, option (c) is a correct answer.
Explanation for the incorrect answers:
Option (a) is given as nonvascular plants. They are small and simple plants who do not have a vascular system and hence they are not considered as monophyletic. So, it is an incorrect answer.
Option (b) is given as green algae. Red algae are considered to be monophyletic. So, it is an incorrect answer.
Option (d) is given as seedless vascular plants. They are not considered to be monophyletic. So, it is an incorrect answer.
Hence, options (a), (b), and (c) are incorrect.
Therefore, it can be concluded that the green algae are definitely monophyletic.
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Chapter 31 Solutions
Biological Science
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